Caterpillar Site Prep Tractor Runs Cool, Powers High-Flow Attachments

The new Cat? 586C Site Prep Tractor is a multi-purpose, heavy-duty machine with enough muscle to run power-hungry mulchers and brushcutters needed for clearing pipeline rights-of-way.

“The tractor runs cool and doesn’t collect debris, so you’ll spend less time cleaning and more time working,” said Matt McDonald, Caterpillar Forest Products product specialist, during a rollout of new equipment Sept. 30 in Clayton, NC. “Plus, you can tackle a variety of projects with one machine, lowering your owning and operating costs.”

New Cat work tools have been developed to match the capability of the 586C as well. The Cat HM825 Mulcher and Cat BR624 Brushcutter are available from the factory and supported by Cat dealers. Other attachments, such as buckets and rakes, are offered by Cat dealers.

The PowerDirect Plus system monitors operator and attachment hydraulic demand to supply power where and when it’s needed. The 350-hp engine and oversized hydraulic system push more flow to the attachment for faster recovery without slowing other functions. The system also helps with fuel efficiency by maintaining a consistent load on the engine.

The high-capacity cooling system and on-demand reversing fan keep the machine running cool. The oversized, hydraulically driven fan spins at a slower speed overall and only turns as fast as needed to maintain proper hydraulic and engine temperatures. In colder weather or when the machine is first started, for example, the fan spins more slowly to conserve power and fuel and reduce noise.

The machine is segmented into separate compartments that are pressurized to prevent debris from entering. The pressurized airflow also keeps electronics, sensors and other key components cool during long workdays.

With the cab positioned between the axles for a more stable ride, the 586C features a three-piece front windshield, back-up camera and skylight providing a 360? view. Special functions enhance operator control and reduce fatigue. Creep mode, for example, gives the operator the ability to adjust speed up or down on the fly with joystick buttons, instead of with just a foot pedal.

“Pushing through thick vegetation or mulching and back dragging can be hard on the operator if speed is controlled strictly with the foot pedal,” McDonald said. “Creep Mode makes it a lot easier on the operator.”

Daily service points are in easy reach, and hydraulic oil is added at ground level with the standard electric hydraulic oil fill pump and a quick coupler hose stored on the machine. Oil is pumped through the filtration system before it enters the tank, safeguarding the hydraulic system. The fuel fill is also at ground level. Other components are easy to reach with the tilting cab, hinged panels and three-sided access to the engine and hydraulic pumps.

Both the HM825 Mulcher and the BR624 Brushcutter feature reinforced skids and internal abrasion-resistant plating minimize downtime and repairs.

The Cat 586C, along with the mulcher and brushcutter attachments, will be in production in May. For further information, visit www.cat.com.